Abstract P127: Chromogranin A Pathway: From Pathogenic Molecule to Renal Disease

Introduction: Chromogranin A (CHGA) is released into circulation with catecholamine from secretory granules of chromaffin cells and post-ganglionic sympathetic neurons. Several CHGA gene polymorphisms contributing to traits of autonomic blood pressure control, hypertension and hypertensive nephropathy have been identified. Plasma CHGA is elevated in hypertension and renal failure. This study seeks to understand the role of CHGA in the progression of CKD/ ESRD. Hypothesis: Kidney injury results in elevated expression of CHGA which in turn affects biochemical and physiological traits that determine progression and development of CKD/ESRD. Methods: The remnant kidney model was used to investigate the influence of CHGA on kidney function in response to injury. Distinction in response to kidney injury in wild-type (WT) and Chga-/- (KO) mice was evaluated by measuring glomerular function, fibrosis and microarray analysis. Mesangial cells were treated with CHGA to delineate pathway leading to inflammation and fi...